options booklet 2011 - 2013

Year 9 Options

2011-2013 Stradbroke Road, Sheffield, S13 8SS Telephone 0114 2358120 Fax 0114 2648752 Email: [email protected] Web: www.city.sheffield.sch.uk Headteacher Mr M T Percival B.A. (Hons), M.Phil, NPQH

mailto:[email protected]

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CONTENTS

4 Introduction

5 Information for Parents

6 Information for Students

7 Helping students to choose

8 Terms Used

Core Subjects

10 English

11 Maths

12-13 Science

14 OCR Nationals ICT

15 Physical Education (core)

16 PSHE - Preparation for Working Life

17 Religion and Life Religious Studies

GCSE Options

19 Psychology

20 Drama

21 Music

22 PE

23 Art and Design

24 Media—Dual Award

25 French

26 History

27 Geography

28 RE

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CONTENTS

Specialism Related Options

30 Applied business

31 ASDAN—Award of Personal Effectiveness (AoPE)

32 ASDAN—Wider Key Skills

33 BTEC Dance

34 Design and Technology—Food Technology

35 Design and Technology– Graphic Products

36 Design and Technology—Product Design

37 Diploma in Business, Administration and Finance

38 Diploma in Creative Media

39 Diploma in Manufacturing

40 BTEC Health and Social Care

41 NVQ French

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INTRODUCTION Dear Parent and student A number of changes have been introduced into the education system by the new coalition government. Some of these changes you will see reflected in the structure of the options your child will be offered this year. You will notice that the changes mean that your son or daughter will be asked to make very different choices from those offered to other children you may have, or have had, at The City School. The new government have introduced, this September, what they are calling the English Baccalaureate (EBacc). To quote the Department for Education ‘The EBacc is not a new qualification in itself. It will recognise student’s achievement s across a core of selected academic subjects in getting good passes in rigorous GCSEs...The English Baccalaureate will cover achievement in English, mathematics, sciences, a language and a humanities subject.’ The government believes that schools should offer pupils a range of options that include, in addition to English, maths and science (which all students will still have to follow), a Humanities subject and a Modern Foreign Language. This has been reflected in the options structure. Triple science will remain as an option for the most able potential scientists amongst the student population. While we are not making the selection of a Humanities or Modern Foreign language compulsory for all students we have had to structure the options to give more prominence to these subjects in line with our currently available staffing. This will provide access for the maximum number of students to the subjects that will make up the EBacc. You will see this reflected in the options form your child has to fill in. In addition to this, as a school, we are increasingly benefitting from the improving vigour of our specialist status as a Business and Enterprise Centre. We are weaving into our curriculum and enrichment activities opportunities for students to develop the skills and aptitudes valued by employers in addition to core qualifications; the ability to work in a team, take initiative, work to a deadline and make decisions are all built into work related learning and business qualifications. Therefore, we are introducing a constrained option that will require all pupils currently in year 9 to select a business or work related learning qualification. We have also removed one option block from this year’s curriculum which means that instead of

four boxes to choose from on the options form there will be three.

Another big change is that college courses will no longer be open to all students in the options

process. College places are very limited and these will be allocated according to need.

As a guide, each of the subject related sections of this booklet match up to the content of each option block. We hope that by the time you receive this booklet that the whole process will be clear. If not please take note of the dates published in the following pages when more guidance can be accessed.

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INFORMATION FOR PARENTS During the Spring Term, all Year 9 pupils are able to choose some of the subjects which they will study in Years 10 and 11. This is obviously an important decision for your child’s future, and we offer to both parents and children a programme of guidance to make the choice as effective as possible. In English, Mathematics and Science, all pupils follow GCSE courses. However in line with national developments we also offer alternative qualifications for those who are at risk of failing to gain a GCSE in the core subject. Additional subjects within our core curriculum are: Religious Education, Physical Education and PSHE (including Careers and Citizenship), and OCR ICT. Pupils are then asked to make three choices from three option blocks. This booklet gives detail of all courses available (compulsory and optional). Pupils and parents should be aware that if there is insufficient demand or staffing for a particular optional course, we may not be able to offer it. In addition, some courses can only cater for a limited number of pupils. For these reasons, pupils will be asked to make one reserve choice. Ms Roche, Deputy Headteacher is in charge of coordinating the options process. Please address any issues or concerns to her in writing or by phone. If you feel that you need further information or explanation, there will be opportunities provided for individual discussion at our;

Options Evening on March 3rd and the Options Consultation Interviews on March 8th.

All GCSE courses are open to pupils of all levels of ability. We should like to ask for your help as parents in three main ways: Seek up to date advice and guidance when supporting your child. To play an active part in the choices made by your child through discussion and advice. To attend the Options Evening and parent/pupil consultation interview. To continue this interest and support during the whole of Key Stage 4 when your child will

be studying for GCSE examinations. This will be a challenging time. Much hard work will be required and your son or daughter will need constant support and encouragement.

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INFORMATION FOR STUDENTS In September you will enter Year 10 and start your examinations courses. Several subjects (the Core Curriculum) are compulsory, but you may choose three subjects yourself. This booklet gives you information about all the courses, both compulsory and optional which are available. This is an exciting opportunity for you to choose courses which you will enjoy and which will suit your own interests and skills. In order to make the most of this opportunity, you need to read this booklet carefully and talk to your teachers and parents before you make your choices. A consistent effort will be required in each subject for the whole of the two-year course. In most courses you will be assessed by your teacher during Years 10 and 11 (controlled assessment), as well as by external examinations. Much of the work you will do in Years 10 and 11 will, therefore, contribute directly to your GCSE grades. We hope you enjoy making your choices and will make a success of the subjects you choose.

ADVICE ON CHOOSING COURSES As you will see, some courses are compulsory for all pupils. If you have a particular career or post-16 course in mind, then you must ensure that you have done enough research, so that you know which subjects it would be best for you to choose. Please seek advice on this from; Ms Roche, Mr Geelan or a Connexions Advisor. Your tutor and subject teachers are also there to help. Many of you do not yet have a clear plan for your future career. Therefore, we would encourage students such as you to maintain a balanced curriculum by choosing a range of different types of subject. Diplomas, while having a strong work related element can be counted for access to A levels and degree studies. It is important to check with the colleges and universities you may be interested in before you make a final choice.

THE CORE CURRICULUM

English Language and English Literature Science Mathematics Physical Education (PE) Religious Education (RE) Personal, Social & Health Education/Citizenship (PSHE) OCR ICT

Some vocational options require more curriculum time than GCSEs. This will affect the number of options open to you so look at all the course information carefully. Ask if you are unsure about anything.

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HELPING STUDENTS TO CHOOSE

Form tutors are available to help pupils with their choices. There will be lessons in PSHE to help them understand how to approach making sensible decisions.

Subject teachers, Faculty Leaders and for some courses specifically named individuals will give their advice. Please check subject pages. Use your experiences of the January taster sessions to help inform your decisions.

The Options Evening is an important opportunity for parents to discuss option choices with subject teachers and seek specialist advice including consultations for pupils with specific needs that may need to be considered when making choices.

OPTIONS EVENING THURSDAY 3rd MARCH 2011 4:30pm - 7:30pm

The pupil and parent consultation day is a personal interview for every pupil in Year 9. Interview times will be sent by post.

CONSULTATION INTERVIEWS TUESDAY MARCH 8th 2011

Deadline for completion of your option form is Thursday 10th March 2011

CONNEXIONS PERSONAL ADVISORS are available in school Monday to Friday throughout the options process. Our advisors are Sabeeha Rafiq and Joanne Marsden. They can help you make important decisions about your future. Some choices you make in Year 9 can affect courses open to you at college when you come to apply in Year 11. This in turn can affect your career options in later life. So do your research and take advice. It is possible to arrange to meet a Connexions Personal Advisor by contacting Sabeeha or Joanne at Star House on 0114 2012800 They also have an office on the top Science corridor. It is situated between Michelle Bridges’ office and Science 11. They are happy for you to drop in at lunchtime on Fridays. Connexions can also be contacted on 0800 6529900.

or by logging onto www.connexionssheffield.org.uk or www.connexions-diect.com

Finally, the options information is organised in the same way for each subject so that it is easy for you to compare methods of assessment and the personal and academic requirements for each course. Please assist your child in thinking carefully about matching their choices to their personal aspirations, prior attainment, aptitude and skills developed during Key Stage 3.

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TERMS USED Core Subjects: Subjects taken by all pupils. Controlled Assessment: A new form of internal assessment replacing coursework in many

subjects. Teachers will assess pupils’ work during Years 10 and 11, and after Moderation (see below), these marks count towards the final GCSE grade. Some subjects have no controlled assessment (only examination), while some have 25% or 60% of the marks via controlled assessment.

External Examinations: Examinations set by approved Examining Groups. They award nationally accepted certificates to successful pupils in the final term of Year 11. The most common examinations lead to GCSE qualifications.

Folder/Folio/Portfolio: An accumulation of controlled assessments compiled during an examination course. The folder/folio contributes to the final assessment leading to the candidates mark and grade.

GCSE: The General Certificate of Secondary Education. This is a government approved national qualification taken when pupils complete their secondary education. For candidates who complete the course satisfactorily, one of eight grades from A* to G is awarded.

Moderation: A way of checking that school-marked controlled assessments satisfies an agreed standard; that is, that the marking is not ‘harder’ for some pupils than for others.

Internal Moderation: This takes place in school in subjects where there is more than one teacher of GCSE groups. It ensures that candidates who have produced the same quality of work, receive the same mark.

External Moderation: Trained moderators compare and standardise the marks awarded by all schools, by checking samples of marked work.

Module: A unit of work connected with a subject area. It may last for a few weeks or longer.

National Curriculum: The government decides what pupils learn at school. It describes what must be taught to children from ages 5 to 16. Secondary school pupils enter in Year 7 and leave in Year 11. This period of time is divided into two Key Stages.

Key Stage 3(KS3) comprises Years 7, 8 and 9. Key Stage 4(KS4) comprises Years 10 and 11.

Vocational: connected with work after leaving school. Tiers: In some subject, pupils may be entered for different levels of examinations

(e.g. Higher Tier, Foundation Tier). The tier will be chosen according to each pupil’s ability and performance.

Specification: Details of the knowledge, understanding and skills needed and the scheme of assessment for a particular qualification (previously called a syllabus).

Prior Attainment: The level each child is working at as indicated by teacher assessment at the end of Year 9.

ALAN—Adult Literacy and Numeracy.

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Core Subjects

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Course Name English Full GCSE

English is not an option! Every employer, college and university and apprenticeship provider will want to know what English qualification you’ve got. By the end of year 11 you will be able to tell them and feel proud of your achievements in English and English Literature. English is the key that unlocks the doors you need to open! You may have no choice about studying English but you have total control of how well you do. We expect you to take responsibility for your learning, to meet deadlines and revise for exams. There are big changes in English with coursework becoming a series of tests for which you are already prepared. You need to show that you can communicate effectively – that’s what every employer wants! You need to write clearly and for a specific purpose. You need to be able to read information and take out the important details. You need to feed back to individuals and groups by speaking clearly and logically to them. Year 10 is a fresh start! Whatever your attitude to English and however well you think you perform in our subject you have the opportunity to make fantastic progress – we love teaching GCSE English and love it even more when our students are enthusiastic, prepared and interested! The course is a mixture of exam skills and preparation for “controlled tests.” When you start year 10 we will give you a full breakdown of what you need to do (but make no mistake – it all matters!). We teach you, as we do throughout school, in mixed ability classes – although some classes will get the benefit of extra support –whichever class you’re in, you should make the most of any help you are given by your teacher or other adults. The good news is that you will leave with 2 GCSEs. A course studying English and English literature means reading novels, studying plays and analysing a set of poems. Bring an open mind! If you choose a Diploma as an option please be aware that you must also pass

something called Functional Skills English.

Course outline

Awarding Body WJEC / AQA

Level of award FULL GCSE (WJEC)

You need to be organised, equipped and prepared to take risks. Our students

also need to keep an open mind when writing, reading and speaking about the

texts we study – even more so when you are listening to others.

Learning attributes required for course

Progression routes

English is, of course, a fundamental requirement

for all future study and success in the world of

work but our students who achieve C or above go

on to study English and English Literature, or a

combination of both at A-level.

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Course Name GCSE Mathematics

The subject is assessed in three unit exams, the results of which are added together to give a final grade. Students study at either the Higher or Foundation level. In order to attain higher than a C grade a student must take at least one of the units at the higher tier. One of the positives about this course is that it is modular. This means that each student can take each unit exam twice. They accumulate marks which equate to a final grade. For example, the maximum number of marks that can be gained are 300. 180 marks equates to a C grade, 210 marks equals a B grade etc. We have also started to enter students in November of Year 11 for their unit 3

exam. If they achieve their target grade, there may be an option to retake the

unit at a higher level. Throughout the year the Maths department run several

interventions to support students in their studies. These include breakfast

clubs, after school and dinner time revision sessions.

All students are welcome.

Course outline

Awarding Body AQA

Level of award

GCSE

Students need to be inquisitive and enthusiastic. Students need to be able to work independently, in groups and be determined to succeed.


Progression routes

Mathematics GCSE is a very valuable qualification. It is one of the first that colleges and employers look at when students are applying for courses and jobs. A good grade at GCSE Maths is a common prerequisite for many post 16

courses including A Level and BTEC.

Unit Content Percentage of final grade

Dates that the exam can be taken

1 Statistics and Number

27% November, March or June

2 Number and Algebra

33% November, March or June

3 Geometry and Algebra

40% November or June

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Course Name Science

Science is the study of life, the environment and the Universe in which we live. What is the ultimate big picture? How, where and why do we fit in? All pupils will study at least 4 hours of Science per week during Years 10 and 11. This is their core provision.

Within this core provision we offer 3 different qualification routes. Science teachers will normally recommend pupils for a specific option based upon previous work and attitude. If a pupil or parent has a particular preference for their study, then science staff are always willing to discuss this further.

Double Science GCSE Pupils study Core Science in Year 10 and Additional Science in Year 11. Both courses include aspects of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. The final GCSE grades are formulated from the results of two hour long examinations in the summer of each year (33% each) and a combination of coursework and practical skill assessment which makes up the final 34%.

Entry level Certificate Science Pupils study small modules and complete shorter assignment tasks and tests in order to gain points towards their final qualification level.

In addition to the Core Science provision, pupils can choose to study for an extra three hours per week in order to gain a Triple Science GCSE qualification Pupils will study for 3 Separate GCSE qualifications – Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Each subject has examinations at the end of Year 10 (33% of final mark) and final examinations at the end of Year 11 (33%). Additional marks are awarded tor two coursework tasks completed throughout the course and there is a teacher assessment of practical skills.

Course outline

Awarding Body All GCSEs – OCR

Entry level Certificate - OCR

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Course Name Science

Level of award

Double Science – 2 GCSE awards Grades A* - G

Please refer to notes in progression routes

Entry level Certificate – Certificate (Bronze, Silver, Gold based upon overall point score)

Triple Science - 3 GCSE awards Grades A* - G

Pupils must enjoy considering scientific ideas and enquiry. They must expect to be challenged by both the content of the courses and its application in every day life.

Commitment to achieve the highest grades possible is essential for anyone wishing to study sciences beyond Key Stage 4.


Progression routes

Double Science will allow pupils to study science at a higher level at college if they attain a C grade or above, but it should be noted that these are general science GCSE qualifications and therefore the move to A level in a specific science subject e.g. Biology, is very demanding.

Triple Science is the preferred study route for any pupil wishing to study any aspect of science at a higher level, particularly A level study. Pupils who gain higher grades in all 3 GCSEs are in a very strong position to gain places on A level courses either at College or in a sixth form.

Many careers in health, medicine or applied sciences require at least one Science at A level supported by higher grade GCSEs in other sciences.

Pupils wishing to study medicine or veterinary science will require a minimum A’s or A*s.

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Course Name OCR Nationals ICT

Course outline All students have already accessed the course in Year 9, with work on the

Business Unit, and this work will become part of their portfolio in KS4.

The units followed in KS4 will be diverse and will include creating video, a

multi-media presentation, a sound unit, making a web page, creating buttons

and banners for the web page and a spreadsheet unit. To complete these units

students will use a range of industry standard software including Excel, Word,

PowerPoint, Fireworks and Dreamweaver.

This course is assessed 100% on coursework and attendance at all lessons is

vitally important as every assessment objective has to be achieved in order to

pass the course.

We have been running this course for two years and the results achieved by

students who have committed themselves to the course whole-heartedly have

been very pleasing.

Please come and speak to us in ICT if you need further information.

Awarding Body OCR

Level of award

Level 2. Up to four GCSE equivalents at Pass, Merit or Distinction corresponding with “C”, “B”, “A” and “A*”.


A reasonable basic aptitude for ICT and an ability to complete coursework on a regular basis throughout the course.

Progression routes

Currently under discussion at national level.

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Course Name Physical Education (Core)

Course outline KS4 Core PE is intended to prepare young people for participation in physical activity in adult life. All students must study at least 1 hour of PE per week in order to help them do so. Some of our students will have the opportunity to study BTEC Sport certificate (equivalent to 1 GCSE). As part of this course students will study a variety of practical sports and training methods in-depth. Those students who do not study for the BTEC qualification will develop the skills that they will require to be able to get involved in a range of sports. Some of these are based at school and others are based in the local community, providing a link to participation in later life:

Team games (e.g. football or netball) Individual games (e.g. badminton) Dance Gymnastics and trampolining Off-Site Community-Based

Activities Fitness at a local gym Martial Arts Ice and roller skating Swimming

Awarding Body

Level of award


Students need the desire and determination to get involved in physical activities that suit them, to maintain good levels of fitness and health.

Students need to make responsible choices about which activities suit their needs. They are expected to have the personal organisation to arrive properly equipped for these and to make their own way to any off-site community activities they choose.

Development of leadership qualities.

Progression routes

Our main goal is to prepare students for participation in physical activities after they leave school, at college and in the local community.

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Course Name PSHE – Preparation For Working Life

Course outline The PHSE course in Years 10 & 11 sets out to prepare you to succeed in the big, wide world! The topics covered are listed below and fall into three main groups. The first of these focuses on personal awareness and is designed to make you reflect on yourself and on how others see you. The second section of the course is about the world of work and supports you in exploring employment opportunities and the process of applying for courses or jobs. The final section is about keeping you safe and looks carefully at health & safety legislation.

The course is taught in a lively, interesting way with a focus on small group work and class discussion. A wide range of ‘experts’ (outside speakers) deliver specific parts of the course and the overall aim is to make it interactive and engaging. You will be asked to carry out a ‘self-reflection’ assessment at the end of each unit to consolidate your learning.

The course covers 9 areas: 1. Personal Awareness 2. Healthy Lifestyle 3. Relationships and differences 4. The Changing World of Work 5. Applying for jobs and courses 6. Economic and financial aspects of life 7. Employment Opportunities 8. Enterprise Activities 9. Hazard Identification

Awarding Body AQA

Level of award

Level1/Level 2 Certificate.

Level 1 is equivalent to ½ a GCSE grade E. Level 2 is equivalent to ½ a GCSE grade B.


Good listening and communication skills. The ability to work as part of a group.

Progression routes

Suitable preparation for any further study or training, and essential preparation

for adult life.

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Course Name Religion & Life Religious Studies

Module 1 Our World

This module allows students to look at the creation of the world using both religious and scientific explanations. We examine our responsibility to the environment and towards animals from an ethical, religious and secular (non-religious) viewpoint.

Module 2 Relationships

For this topic students investigate different types of relationship; girl/boy, man/woman, Hetero and homosexual, parent/children and relationships with friends, community and pets. We look at how religions celebrate these relationships and the support that can be provided. We also examine attitudes to pre and extra-marital sex.

Module 3 God, Life and Death

This module investigates some of the deepest questions people ask themselves; Why are we here? Is there a God? If there is what is he like? Why do people believe in God? How do they respond to and experience God? What happens when we die? Is it ever acceptable to kill a person or help them die to escape suffering?

Module 4 Is It Fair?

The last topic covered looks at stereotypes, racism, sexism, prejudice and discrimination. We look at how people treat others and compare this with the teachings of the religions. We investigate the nature of poverty and the attitudes of religions towards wealth. This module looks at how racism, sexism and world poverty are confronted by religious believers and see how they claim they behave.

Assessment is by a single 1 hour 50 minute exam.

Course outline

Awarding Body WJEC

Level of award

GCSE short course A*- G.

Literacy, discussion skills, collaborative learning skills, research and reflection. Learning attributes required for course

Progression routes

This will help students going to college or into work as it is the only humanities course many students take to this level.

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GCSE Options

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Course Name GCSE Psychology

Course outline Psychology is essentially the study of mind and behaviour. At the core of Psychology GCSE are five key approaches: Biological Psychology looks at how biological factors, such as genes and

chemicals, influence behaviour. Cognitive Psychology focuses specifically on the functioning of the mind

and looks at mental processes. Developmental Psychology is concerned with how people’s minds and

behaviour change over time. Social Psychology looks at how we respond to and are affected by others. Research into Individual Differences shows that we are not all the same

and how each individual is unique.

Each approach is represented by two topics – one in Year 10 and one in Year 11- pupils study 10 topics in total. 5 topics in Year 10 make up the unit “Studies and Applications 1”. This is assessed by examination at the end of Year 10, and is worth 40% of the final GCSE mark. 5 topics in Year 11 make up the unit “Studies and Applications 2”. This is assessed by examination at the end of Year 11, and is worth 40% of the final GCSE mark.

Another key aspect of Psychology is actually doing research and this is covered by the “Research in Psychology “ unit. Assessed by examination at the end of Year 11, this unit makes up the final 20% of the final GCSE mark.

To obtain higher grades in this GCSE pupils will need to be able to structure

extended written answers to questions using correct technical vocabulary.

Aspects of research will also require confident application and use of

mathematical procedures. Pupils with predicted GCSE grades below C in English

or Mathematics will therefore find some of the Psychology GCSE examination

requirements fairly demanding.

Awarding Body OCR

Level of award

GCSE A*- G.


Desire to research topics in detail to consolidate and perhaps extend subject matter presented in class. Students will be required to work in groups to complete both written and practical tasks, but must also have the ability to work independently to analyse and evaluate their own and others work.

Progression routes

Useful for students wishing to study areas of science, nursing, health care or

social care particularly those where A level Psychology is recommended

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Course Name GCSE Drama

Course outline GCSE Drama is a highly successful subject at The City School. It will help to develop your confidence and give you skills that will be useful in your life after school. You will explore a range of issues and will sometimes work with scripts and sometimes make up your own plays. You’ll get the chance to think for yourself and work practically on your own ideas, both in groups and sometimes on your own. You will visit the theatre, work with actors and perform in front of audiences. You don’t need to be super-confident at the start of the course; just be prepared to have a go and join in! You’ll be expected to work hard but also to take responsibility for your own learning – this isn’t a subject that uses text books. You will enjoy the course if you like practical, creative lessons. You will also have some writing to do, mainly for homework, and you must have good attendance: working in groups means that you have a duty to be there for the team.

Drama is assessed in 2 ways: You have to complete two pieces of Controlled Assessment which involves you completing 2 lots of 8 one hour practical workshops in lesson time. One of these will be on a theme set by your teacher, the other will be based on a production you have seen at the theatre – attendance at the theatre is vital if you want to do well on this coursework! These workshops test your ability to work together with other students in the class to create, rehearse and develop practical ideas. You also have to complete 3 pieces of written work to go with the workshops. This written work will also be done in the classroom and again under controlled assessment conditions.

The third piece of assessment is your final examination, which is entirely practical: you create a piece of Drama over a number of weeks and an examiner comes in to watch and mark you: you will be working in groups, but be marked as an individual. The 2 pieces of coursework count for 60% of your final grade, and the examination counts for 40%. During the course you will concentrate on building up your confidence, your practical ability and your understanding of what makes a good piece of drama, and what you can do to improve a bad piece: this means you have to be confident enough to not be bothered when people criticise your work.

Awarding Body Edexcel

Level of award

Level 2: This is a GCSE course which will provide you with 1 GCSE grade between

A* and G.


Excellent attendance. The ability to work with anyone in your class, whether they are a friend or not. Some confidence as a performer (though you will gain confidence as you do the course). Not being worried when people point out that you need to improve your work

Progression routes

GCSE Drama can lead to AS levels (including Theatre

Studies) for which you will need to achieve at least a

Grade C; or more practical courses such as a Level 3

BTEC in Performing, for which a Grade C or D is needed.

Most practical courses involving Drama at Level 3 will

require you to perform at an audition to get on the course.

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Course Name GCSE Music

Students who choose the GCSE Music course as an option will find they are spending a lot of their time making music – either performing or composing.

For the GCSE exam you are required to compose two short pieces of music. It may be for any combination of instruments and/or voices and can be in any style. In other words students will be able to follow their own musical tastes and interests as they develop through the course and make the kind of music which most appeals to them.

In addition to the composing, you will perform two pieces of music as part of the assessment. One as a solo and one in a group - the choice of instrument/music/style will be the student’s (guided by their music teacher.) It is, therefore, essential that you take instrument or singing lessons (free of charge) to help you achieve maximum marks for this.

Students will also regularly perform within the class to gain experience of both performing in front of an audience and as part of a larger group. As well as the practical music making we spend time listening to music of different styles, ages and cultures.

In conjunction with the listening goes learning about how music ‘works’ and learning to read and write music, putting these lessons into practice when composing.

Assessment

40% for two compositions, one of which is composed under controlled conditions

40% for performing one solo and Ensemble piece 20% for a final listening examination in May of year 11.

Students will find Music involves a combination of hard work and enjoyment. Music helps develop essential skills used across Arts and encourages creativity, individuality and collaboration.

Course outline

Awarding Body AQA

Level of award GCSE A* - G.

Desire and commitment to learn to perform. Learning

Progression routes

Following GCSE, courses on offer at Sheffield College and some sixth forms include:

AS/A2 level Music AS/A2 level Music Technology BTEC National Diploma in Performing Arts Music BTEC First Diploma in Practical Music

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Course Name GCSE Physical Education

Students will study 3 lessons per week (+ 1 core PE lesson) and these lessons will be divided between the 2 sections of the course. 2 lessons will be spent in a classroom developing theoretical understanding, and 2 lessons will be spent developing sports performance and tactical awareness in practical PE lessons. In theory lessons students will learn about physical education and physical activity, in relation to balanced healthy lifestyles, and how a healthy, active lifestyle contributes to the growth and development of body systems and structures (including the cardiovascular, muscular, respiratory and skeletal systems), as well as general wellbeing. The theory part of the course is worth 40% of the final grade and is assessed in a final written exam in Y11.

In practical sports performance lessons students will continue to develop their skills and tactical awareness in a variety of sports. This builds on the work that they have done in previous years but in much greater depth. Students will be assessed in their strongest 4 activities in the role of either performer, coach or official. This part of the course is worth 50% of the final grade. Finally, students will be assessed on their ability to observe and analyse a performance of an individual or team. This is worth 10% of the final grade.

Course outline


Level of award Level 2, GCSE A* - G.

Enjoyment of Physical Education, with a genuine interest in a range of PE-related activities ( not just football!).

Personal organisation and willingness to bring required equipment several times per week. A genuine interest in the theoretical topics that underpin participation and performance in sport.


Progression routes

Post-16 Courses: Level 3 BTEC Sport. A Level Physical Education and Sport Studies.

Careers in the sports industry: Coaching, fitness instruction, sport development, leisure management, media and promotions. The course will also be extremely useful for students interested in psychology, physiotherapy or medicine.

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Course Name BTEC/GCSE Art and Design

Art and Design is a creative and exciting course, which takes place through mainly practical lessons. You will explore and learn new skills including ceramics, textiles, graphics, painting, printing, photography and ICT. Art is a popular choice and students have experienced high levels of success at every level of ability. Students will have the opportunity to visit exhibitions and use these to inspire their own ideas and work.

The qualification is assessed through coursework which is completed in lessons throughout years 10 and 11.

Course outline


Level of award

Level 2 BTEC Certificate (equivalent to 2 GCSE A* - C grades).

Excellent attendance Willing to try all activities and topics Hard working and willing to work on coursework out of lessons


Progression routes

This could lead to college courses in:

National Diplomas in Fine Art, Photography and Graphic Design. AS and A levels in Art and Design. BTEC Design/Art and Design/Multi-media. Fashion Higher National Diplomas. Foundation and university courses.

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Course Name GCSE Media Dual Award

GCSE Media is a highly successful subject at The City School with an excellent pass rate, including grades at C or above. Students with an appropriate academic profile may, with 5 predicted grades at C or above, have the opportunity to work towards the BTEC national Diploma in Media which is equivalent to two GCSEs.

The focus of the course will be on practical hands-on work using new technologies. Successful students will be imaginative and creative, good independent learners with initiative and excellent communicators who enjoy working as part of a team. It is suitable for students who are enthusiastic and wish to develop additional skills in journalism.

We aim to encourage students to develop life skills in communication, presentation and team work which are consistently valued and targeted by employers.

During the last three years Y10 Media students have had the opportunity to:

Film and interview local Media personalities Develop and contribute to, Gaze Diverse Visions creative arts

magazine and Cube magazine. Produce, edit and direct films to a professional standard. Produce magazine articles for professional journals including, Jaguar

car magazine. Work with professional journalists from the Star and Calendar. Work at Manchester United as part of an accredited press team.

Media is assessed in two ways: You have to complete four pieces of written Coursework to complete during the first year. Each assignment will be between 600 and 800 words long and you will be given four weeks to complete each unit. Coursework is worth 50% of the marks available in years 10 and 11. Each assignment will involve you completing a detailed analysis of Media texts. You will also produce a portfolio of practical design based work, based on magazines, pop music and film.

The second piece of assessment is final examinations, which take place under controlled conditions in years 10 and 11.

Course outline

Awarding Body AQA

Level of award GCSE A*- G.

Excellent attendance The ability to work with anyone in your class, whether they are a

friend or not. ICT skills. An interest in film, music or journalism.


Progression routes

You can study A levels (including Media, Film and Photography) or more practical courses such as a Level 3 Media in moving image. Colleges will require students to have obtained grades at B or above at GCSE level.

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Course Name GCSE French (Full course)

Would you like to be able to speak a foreign language better? Might you want to learn another language later in life? If you have learned one language, it makes learning a second language much easier! In KS4 you will deepen your knowledge in 4 contexts: Lifestyle, Leisure, Home and Environment, Work and Education.

You will continue to work on the 4 skills learned at KS3.Communication in another language is a practical, transferable skill:

employers say they want applicants with conversational ability in a second language

Which means just having a little bit of language could help you when you come to get a job.

You will take controlled assessments during Y10 and Y11, two in Writing and two in Speaking, worth 60% of the final marks. You receive the same assessment opportunities whether you are working at Foundation or Higher level – your input determines the level you get.

Y11 exams: Listening and Reading, worth 40%. Two tiers: this means you could take Higher level Reading but feel more comfortable with Foundation level Listening. Buying souvenirs from a market while on

holiday in France (July 2008).

Course outline

Awarding Body AQA

Level of award

GCSE A* - G. Students who have reached level 5 at KS3 are usually able to access Grade C or above. Students who have been working at National Curriculum level 5a or 6 can reasonably expect to access Higher level material and grades B, A and A* .

You must be enthusiastic and determined to succeed and have enjoyed French at Key Stage 3.


Progression routes

You need a grade C in French at GCSE level if you hope to choose it at A-level and beyond. University admissions tutors will sometimes consider applicants with language skills as having an advantage, check with the universities you may wish to consider applying to.

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Course Name GCSE History

Course outline A Study in Depth-Germany 1919-1945 [Exam]

The unit looks at the conditions in Germany as a basis for explaining Hitler’s rise to power. It examines the appeal and impact of National Socialism [Nazism] on the German people. A Study in Development-Medicine and Treatment [Exam]

Blood, guts and gore!

Ancient medicine-It’s all Greek to me!-or is it? Medicine and Health 1350-1750. Out with the old and in with the new

guys on the block! Medicine and Health 1750-1900. Why was there so much progress in

this period? Medicine and Health since1900. Why have medicine and health

improved so rapidly since 1900? Extension study: Public health c1350 to the present day. This looks at

the development of public health from the mid-14th century to the present day and, in particular, considers the role of the government in bringing about improvements.

We are also involved in a special study of bleeding, infection and pain through the ages-The Transformation of surgery c1845-1918 [Source Enquiry]

A Controlled assessment-The Vietnam War 1960-75

The reasons for US involvement in Vietnam. The nature of conflict and reasons for US defeat. The impact of the war on civilians and the military The growth of protest in the USA and the end of the conflict: How did

people in the US react to the Vietnam war The course requires students to understand change and continuity and develop the ability to think critically. Students will follow a simple modular structure enabling them to ‘bank’ success. The examination papers are shorter and more accessible .


Level of award GCSE [no tiered papers] A* - G.


An enquiring mind, independence of thought and learning, prepared to work hard, interested in the past and the world around us.

Progression routes

A-Level History, Law, Politics, English, Psychology, Sociology. Then university

and professional careers e.g. teaching, Law, Business, Politics, Civil Service,

Marketing, advertising, media, museum service, human resources.

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Course Name GCSE Geography

Unit 1 – Managing Places in the 21st Century: The coastal environment or the Urban (town/city) Environment.

Unit 2 – Hostile World: Living with Natural Hazards: Earthquakes, volcanoes, hurricanes, wildfires

Unit 3 – Investigating the shrinking world: Investigating the globalisation of industry or Investigating global tourism. Assessment: There are two levels of entry: Foundation and Higher. At Foundation level the grades available are G to C and at higher level the grades available are D to A*.

There are 3 exams of one hour each. Exams are available in January and June each year. You could do one in the January of Y10, another in the summer and the final exam the summer of Y11.

Controlled Assessment (25%) Two pieces of coursework to be done separately at different times in the course:

Fieldwork Investigation (choice from 4 topics) – 15% Urban area; coasts; global tourism; industry.

Course outline

Awarding Body AQA


An ability to work independently and interdependently. Hard work and commitment is needed to tackle some of the complex ideas in this course.


Progression routes

A wide range of careers are available including surveying, teaching, retail, travel and tourism, careers in the armed forces or environmental management.

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Course Name GCSE RE—Full Course

The course involves the study of philosophical and ethical issues within the context of 2 religious beliefs. The two principle religions we shall study are Christianity and Judaism. There are two themes which we will be looking at. Module 1 “Religion and Life Issues” and Module 2 “Religion and Human Experience”. Module 1 looks at 4 topics- Relationships, Is It Fair?, Looking for Meaning and Our World. Module 2 will be looking at 4 topics also- Religious Expression, Medical Ethics, Crime and Punishment and Conflict. Assessment-There are two papers to sit of 1 hour and 45 minutes each. There is no coursework for this examination. Unit Award Accreditation will be available for students who do not reach GCSE standard.

Course outline

Awarding Body WJEC Spec B Unit 1 and 2 206/1 and 206/2

Level of award GCSE Full Course A*- G with Levels 1-3 Unit Award.

The skills taught on this course are those of understanding, application and evaluation. This course has many transferable skills which other subjects support such as, deadlines, literacy and discussion. The skills of communication, group work and ICT will be developed during your progress on this course.


Progression routes

This course is ideal for those of you that like to discuss and to listen to other people’s points of view.

It will suit those who wish to go on and study Philosophy and Ethics at AS and A Level.

It will also provide a good basis for those wanting to go onto university and can be combined with other subjects either science based or arts based.

This course will also suit those looking to work with people in a supportive place of work; such as social work, teaching, nursing, counselling, journalism, law and those wanting further study.

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SPECIALISM RELATED OPTIONS

These have a business related element. Each has a different balance of academic and practical work based elements.

Please check the course descriptor carefully.

30

Course Name Applied Business

Course outline Students who study the applied business course will actively engage in the study of business. By doing this, they will develop as independent students who can research and reflect on their own learning. They will also develop knowledge of relevant issues that face businesses today and apply that knowledge in a range of local, national and global contexts.

Students will also appreciate that businesses have a range of stakeholders with different influences and interests that need to be met, and will investigate how businesses accommodate to these needs. Students will also study the importance of achieving sustainable and ethical business activities.

Units 1 and 3 will be assessed by controlled assessment and two examinations. The controlled assessment elements will be an extended piece of writing assessed within controlled conditions within the classroom.

Units 2 and 4 will be assessed by external examination.


Level of award

One or two GCSEs grade A*- G.


Progression routes

Excellent attendance. Students need to be able to work in teams and independently. An interest in business, entrepreneurship and current affairs.

Students could have a career in accountancy, banking, finance, teaching or starting their own business. AS & A2 level in economics and business as well as a wide range of other university courses.

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Course Name ASDAN—The Award of Personal Effectiveness (AoPE)

Course outline This is a foundation course which helps students to develop important life skills needed in the place of work.

The Award of Personal Effectiveness enables students to develop many skills through small in and out of school based projects.

Student will learn about basic first aid, they will organise fund raising events for different charities and community groups and even study about famous celebrities in the media for a project. For students who enjoy a mixture of creative ‘hands on’ work, this is the right course for them! In this course students will get opportunities to work in collaboration with the City School's business ‘City Ceramics’. Learning how to be creative and plan and make a range of craft items, to be used to help students pass this qualification. This is a practical based subject enabling students to express themselves and gain accreditation for their work in many different ways.

More information about each of these awards can be found by talking to Mrs Cartledge. You will be given the chance to demonstrate your ability to:

Working as part of a group Working towards goals Dealing with problems in daily life Planning and carrying out research Discussion Preparing for and giving a presentation Developing self

All these will be done through MINI PROJECTS which last about 6 weeks each.

There is no exam, all work is assessed through 100% coursework submission to an external moderator.

Overall you can earn different sizes of qualifications

Award Certificate Diploma 1-12 credits 13-36 credits 37+ credits

Awarding Body ASDAN

Level of award

Level 1 and/or Level 2, 1/2 a GCSE grade E at Level 1 and 1/2 a GCSE grade B at

Level 2.

Learning attributes required for the course

You will enjoy courses which are 100% coursework based. You will enjoy doing mini projects of work and collecting / gathering evidence of their work.

Progression routes

Level 1/2 courses at college in a wide range of subjects.

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Course Name ASDAN Wider Key Skills

You will study towards the three wider key skills which include:

Working with Others – In the world of work and school there will be times

when you have to work as a group to achieve targets and get jobs done.

This skill involves working in small and larger teams. You will be asked to

do presentations, discussions and various forms of group work. You will

be able to share skills by learning new skills and new ways of working

from other people. This will involve you sharing ideas and producing

things, you may be asked to produce a school magazine for example

when working with other people.

Improving Own Learning and Performance – this is something you actually

need and use every day when you are learning. This will help you to

understand the different ways you learn. These skills are vital at school,

college and at work. You may learn basic first aid skills for example as

part of this wider key skill.

Problem Solving – You will work through problems, realising there are many ways to solve problems in everyday life and at school. Acquiring these skills will help you to stay in control and empower you to feel far more confident about what you are doing. The work for this may be based around a work experience placement.

To evidence all three wider key skills (listed above) you will complete mini projects in a portfolio which you get to keep when you leave school. There is no exam; it’s all assessed on your portfolio work.

Course outline

Awarding Body ASDAN

Level of award Level 1 and Level 2, equivalent to ¾ of a GCSE.

You need to be an independent learner, imaginative and committed to work well on coursework consistently. You will be expected to produce homework every week.


Progression routes

Level 2/ 3 Wider Key Skills

ASDAN qualifications can be followed up to Level 3 which carries equivalence to

A Levels within QCF .

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Course Name Dance

Course outline BTEC Dance is an exciting course which requires you to be committed to and inspired by lots of different dance genres. You will study dance through mainly practical lessons which will focus on a variety of techniques and styles such as ballet, contemporary, jazz, street and break dance. As well as performing dance, you will be expected to understand the process of choreography, dance history and study performing arts as a business.

This is a course for open minded students who are prepared to work hard, be creative, and who are inspired by dance. You don't have to be the most confident person in the world because we will help you to build this.

The BTEC First Diploma in Performing Arts Dance is made up of six units. Each unit is worth 1/6 of the final mark. Each unit will last roughly one term. Each unit of work will be assessed by your Dance Teacher.

The six units are: Jazz Dance: This unit is assessed by an essay which makes up 30% of your

mark. Understanding Dance: For this unit of work you will study the history, social

and different types of dance. This unit is assessed by the creation of two dance routines. These both need to last 2 minutes and will make up 80% of the mark. Evaluations, witness statements and an essay will make up the final 20%

Performing Arts Business: This unit is 100% written work. Musical Theatre: This is assessed on practical skills and 20% of your mark will

be a written evaluation. Performing Dance: This unit is assessed on practical dance skills alongside

learning logs, witness statements, peer assessments and interviews must be carried out and submitted as examples of improved technique.

The production process: During this unit of work you will devise a group performance which lasts 20 minutes. A written evaluation of the production must be submitted. This makes up 30% of the unit grade.


Level of award

Level 2. This is a BTEC Diploma course which will provide you with the equivalent of four GCSE’s. You will achieve a Pass, Merit or Distinction, corresponding with C, B, A, or A*.


Excellent attendance. Good dance skills and coordination. The ability to work with anyone in your class, whether they are a friend

or not. Confidence as a performer. Not being phased when people point out what you need to do to

improve your work.

Progression routes

You can study A levels or more practical courses such as a Level 3 BTEC in

Dance. Most A levels would require you to achieve a Distinction, and level 3

BTECs require a Merit or above.

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Course Name Design and Technology: Food Technology

Course outline Food technology is applying food science to selecting, preserving, processing and packaging food products. Throughout this course students will design and

develop new food products, explore possibilities with ingredients and investigate nutrition. The City School holds an ‘Enhanced Healthy School’

food status and students will be encouraged to create nutritional, wholesome food as well as indulging in the wonderful world of cake and puddings. This course will not only provide students with knowledge and skills for future life but it can open a window into the food and drink industry which offers an enormous range of careers and opportunities. 60% of your marks are gained through controlled assessment and 40% through the final examination

Awarding Body AQA



Students who opt for this subject should enjoy working with food and be prepared to produce relevant design work. The controlled assessment requires you to spend 45 hours producing a design folder and so you need to be self motivated and be able to work well as an individual.

Progression routes

Hospitality and catering, health promotion, dietetics, teaching, food science and

technology.

A and AS level in food technology. Diplomas in Hospitality and Catering,

possible careers in health promotion, dietetics, teaching and food science.

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Course Name Design and Technology: Graphic Products

This course involves working in paper, card and other modelling materials to work creatively and produce 3 dimensional solutions to problems. Typical projects include making a pop-up book, redesigning and rebranding a package, and investigating point-of-sale displays.

You will also learn a range of drawing and presentation skills to communicate ideas, and use ICT for CAD and CAM work.

60% of your marks are gained through a controlled assessment and 40%

through the final examination.

Course outline

Awarding Body AQA

Level of award GCSE A*- G.

Students who opt for this subject should enjoy producing quality graphical work, be creative when planning ideas, and be prepared to take risks in producing original solutions to problems. The controlled assessment requires you to spend 45 hours producing a design folder and so you need to be self motivated and be able to work well as an individual.


Progression routes

A and AS level in Product Design, Diplomas in manufacturing, engineering or Product Design at level 3. Careers in product design, graphic design, architecture, manufacturing and engineering.

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Course Name Design and Technology: Product Design

Course outline This course gives students of all abilities an exciting opportunity to work with a range of materials including wood, metals and plastics. You will be expected to solve real problems in original and imaginative ways, by making products like educational toys, new packaging for products, and a point of sale display for after shave or perfume.

You will learn how to analyse and evaluate products, identify situations where there is a need to produce a design solution and have a broader understanding of how commercial products are manufactured.

You will also learn how CAD

(Computer Aided Design)/CAM

(Computer Aided Manufacturing) can

be used to manufacture products and

you will develop a range of drawing

and graphical skills.

60% of your marks are gained through a controlled assessment and 40%

through final examination.

Awarding Body AQA

Level of award

GCSE A* - G.


Students who opt for this subject should enjoy working with resistant materials. You will find designing and making new products an exciting challenge. The controlled assessment requires you to spend 40 hours producing a design folder and so you need to be self motivated and be able to work well as an individual.

Progression routes

A an AS level Product Design, engineering, graphic design, teaching,

civil engineering and industrial design.

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Course Name Diploma in Business, Administration and Finance

The Business, Administration and Finance Diploma has been developed to teach young people about working in business; helping them to become more employable by combining business knowledge, practical skills, communication and team working skills. It includes engaging, relevant content to enable young people to progress further in education and employment.

To complete the whole diploma, students need to pass all nine units, plus functional skills examinations in Literacy, Numeracy and ICT at level 2 standard. By successfully completing all nine units plus the functional skills, students will achieve the level 2 diploma, which is equivalent to seven GCSEs at grade A* - C.

Course outline


Level of award

Level 2 Diploma in Business, Administration and Finance., equivalent to 7 GCSEs grade A* - C.

Students need to be hard working and have the ability to work independently

and in teams.


Progression routes

Students could become a marketing manager, sales manager, finance manager,

cashier, administration assistant or start their own business.

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Course Name Diploma in Creative and Media

Course outline The Diploma in Creative and Media is an exciting new qualification for young people aged 14-19, who wish to work with professionals from the Media sector. New Media and Creative industries include pop music, game design, film, television, photography and theatre.

The diploma is equivalent to 7 GCSEs including accreditation in functional skills in English, Maths and ICT; in order to obtain the full Diploma students will need to pass separate examinations in the above.

The focus of the course will be on practical hands-on work using new technologies. Many exciting learning opportunities will be available beyond the course, for students who wish to develop supplementary skills in journalism. Students will be provided with work placements with professionals from this sector.

During the first term of the course students have had the opportunity to:

Film and interview local Media personalities, including Britain’s got talent star, Sophie Mei

Watch a professional theatre production at The Lyceum Theatre and have a backstage tour of The Crucible and Lyceum Theatres. Produce magazine articles for professional journals including, Jaguar car magazine.

Work with professional journalists. Work with Design company ‘WAK studios’ on a design animation project. Watch films at The Showroom Cinema and work with the cinema

director on a planning project.

Media is the course to choose if you like practical, creative lessons. You will also need to have high level written and oral communication skills in order to pass the course. Students should be at level 6, or above, at SATS

The Creative and Media Diploma is assessed through a portfolio of practical design based work and analysis. This portfolio will include 7 complete units. These are, Unit 1 The Creative and Media Scene, Unit 2 Performance, Unit 3 Artefact, Unit 4 Record, Unit 5 Understanding Campaigns, Unit 6 Festival, Unit 7, Individual project .


Level of award Level 2, equivalent to 7 GCSEs A*- G.


Excellent attendance. High level communication skills Self confidence. The ability to work as part of a team. ICT ,Maths and English Skills. An interest in film, music or journalism. An interest in Art, Photography or creative writing.

Progression routes

If you pass with a full diploma you can study A levels (including Media, Film and

Photography) or more practical courses such as a Level 3 Diplomas in Creative

and Media.

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Course Name Diploma in Manufacturing

Course outline ‘Manufacturing generates two-thirds of the UK’s exports, directly provides 4.3

million jobs and accounts for 20% of GDP.’ If you enjoy practical subjects like DT, if you are up for a challenge and work well in a team. If you enjoy designing and making products and want to explore about the manufacturing industry this could be the right course for you. The Higher Level Diploma is made up of a number of elements including accreditation in functional skills in Maths, English and ICT. This course is being offered at Level 1 and Level 2 It is based upon a synthesis of three key elements:

Business & Enterprise Production Systems Science and Design

What will I be doing? You are required to complete 7 principal learning units:


Level of award

Level 1, equivalent to 5 GCSEs at G - D. Level 2, equivalent to 7 GCSEs at A*- C.


Excellent attendance. High level communication skills. Self confidence. The ability to work as part of a team. ICT ,Maths and English Skills.

Progression routes

There are numerous job roles and career paths available, including jobs in: food

and drink, engineering manufacturing, chemicals, pharmaceuticals and

polymers, fashions and textiles, furniture, print and building products.

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Course Name BTEC Health and Social Care

Course outline The course is designed for those students who are interested in a career in one of the Health, Social Care or Early Years professions.

Currently the course is all coursework based (there are no exams). During the course students will study 3 of the following units:

Communication & Individual Rights in Health & Social Care Sectors Individual Needs in Health & Social Care Sectors A Work Experience in a Health & Social Care Setting Anatomy & Physiology for Health & Social Care Human Lifespan Development The Impact of Diet on Health

Students can be awarded a Pass, Merit , Distinction or Distinction Star. All students who attend regularly will have studied 3 units by the end of the course. It is expected that BTEC Health and Social care students will select a Health and Social care setting for their work experience at the end of Y10. This is a requirement of the work experience unit.


Level of award

An Extended Certificate is equivalent to 2 GCSEs

Pass (2 grade C). Merit (2 Grade B). Distinction (2 Grade A). Distinction Star (2 grade A*).


Students need to have a definite interest in the ‘care’ professions. This is a vocational course and is designed to be specifically relevant to these professions. They also need to be able to empathise with individuals needing care and support from others. Students need or should be prepared to develop and demonstrate effective communication skills, good research skills and time management skills.

Progression routes

Students can move onto employment via modern apprenticeships in the NHS

and various other BTEC/NVQ course in Early Years Education & Social Care

settings. Students can also move directly into further education to study BTEC

National in Health & Social Care or A Level Health & Social Care. Students in the

past have also gone on to study A Levels in Psychology, Sociology, Child care.

Good grades at BTEC National or ‘A’ Level along with the core subjects can

ultimately lead to the Foundation Degrees in Health Care; Nursing;

Child Development, Social Work, Care Management to name a few.

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Course Name NVQ French

Course outline Would you like to be able to speak and understand enough French to be useful in the world of business? You will continue to work on the 4 skills learned at KS3: but from a business point of view. You will also learn some of the skills needed in a business context. Communication in another language is a practical, transferable skill:

employers say they want applicants with conversational ability in a second language

Which means just having a little bit of language could help you when you come to get a job. Assessment is by portfolio, which means you will not have any exams at the end of Year 11. Each portfolio is a collection of evidence showing your skills in the four units of Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing. You take mini-tests when you and your teacher think you are ready. Some pieces of evidence are at a higher level and give you more points.

Awarding Body IBC (International Business Communication)

Level of award

This qualification is suitable for any ability. A full NVQ level 1 of our units is the equivalent of grade E/F. You can create a mixed-level portfolio (grade C /D). A full portfolio of higher level pieces has the points equivalent of a grade B GCSE. Note: you cannot get a grade A or A* in this qualification.


Be prepared to follow advice and complete a portfolio.

Progression routes

You can progress to NVQ level 3 at college or when you find a job with an

employer who wants the staff to develop language skills.

You need French at GCSE level if you hope to choose it at A-level.

options booklet 2011 - 2013

Documents

options structure

range of options

core subjects

students achievement

maximum number of students

english baccalaureate

technologyproduct design

new government